This edition of the newsletter could not go to press without a mention for those guys stepping down from the committee, especially Graham and Adam. It’s a thankless task with pleasure and pain in equal measure. Thanks to all of you.

The newsletter is provoking comment and interest. My mole on the committee reported the last edition was appreciated at that level, if only for the photographs. It’s a point though and we’ll try to keep up with the picture element in future editions.

As many of you will know my preoccupation is with the writing. We have a group now who contribute regularly, each with their own unique voice. Serious, scholarly almost, whimsical, informative – there are a range of tones and feelings. Please read them. If you have anything to say in reply, send us a letter or an e-mail. The best ones will be published – I might even buy you a pint.

This does not imply that the writing department is shut. We will invite at least one new piece per edition. David Steele and Derek Haigh are in this one. Another important open-ended area is keeping the newsletter fresh. I listen closely to any ideas. JRR suggested favourite composers and singers. Ray Thomson proposed the Desert Island Disc format, which we will trial next time. Anything that is musical or about the choir! I’d like to follow up previous members who have moved on – anybody willing to help men out?

Happy Christmas.